SMS club is expanding its boundaries. Recently our team visited the city of Cherkassy to share our experience and conduct the first ever meeting of a new club of the same name. The topic of patriotism brought in more than 60 guests. Interestingly, at home to on the 27th of January a patriotically themed evening also brought in a record number of youth. What could be the cause of this lively interest?

 

We won't be mistaken if we say that the events of recent months have caused many Ukrainians to review their attitude to expressions of patriotism. Patriotism was once a characteristic of members of the right-wing parties or of nationalistic fanatics, but now it is one of the main characteristics of every citizen. The contrast with the past is visible everywhere: Ukrainian flags are hanging from almost every second balcony, and traditional Ukrainian shirts are no longer worn just at patriotic assemblies. In other words, patriotism has become fashionable. But is that enough?

In SMS club we decided to think about the characteristics that a true patriot should have. We also asked ourselves whether it is possible for patriotism to be harmful. A skit at the start of the evening showed how to balance between radicalism and indifference. We went on to look at this topic from the Christian point of view.
Understanding that God is no respecter of persons, it was not hard to come to the conclusion that true patriotism has nothing in common with nationalistic chauvinism. Furthermore, the biblical call to concern ourselves with the well-being of the earth motivates us not only to talk, but to take conscientious action.

In fact we need another contrast. What matters is not an external show of patriotism, but the quality and essence of that patriotism. For example not throwing trash on the street is better than having a patriotic slogan for your status on Facebook. So in order to build a conscientious society, it's necessary to start with yourself.
Of course we love our people and recognize their right to self affirmation. And of course, respecting the rights and freedoms of others, and being conscientious and responsible are things that never go out of fashion.

Vlada Ryabukha

The photo album for the evening is here